“People Helping People” Philosophy Stocks the Shelves of Loaves & Fishes

Hunger doesn’t take a “summer vacation.” That’s why employees of the Naperville-based Illinois Credit Union System (ICUS) significantly increased their efforts during their annual summer food drive for Loaves & Fishes. As a result, they donated more than 1,100 pounds of food to help feed our hungry neighbors.

Tom Kane, Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) President/CEO, leads efforts to end hunger and empower lives.

Tom Kane, Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) President/CEO, leads efforts to end hunger and empower lives.

ICUS employees collected our most needed items, such as canned goods; potatoes and onions; boxed goods including cereal, rice, and pasta; as well as gift bags containing party favors, decorations and cake serving supplies. These special extras were donated to help bring joy to underprivileged children during times of celebration.

As not-for-profit financial cooperatives, the credit union “People Helping People” philosophy motivates them to support countless community charitable activities and worthwhile causes. It’s unfortunate nearly 100,000 people in DuPage County alone are unsure from where their next meal will come. In addition, with more than 16 percent of the county’s children considered “food insecure”, this food drive was one more way to continue the on-going social commitment of the credit union movement.

LOAVES AND FISHES“Food connects us all,” said Matthew Chicola, Director of External Relations at Loaves & Fishes. “The Illinois Credit Union System has demonstrated how powerful this connection is by donating a significant amount of food for low-income client families who struggle to put well-balanced meals on their tables. This donation will put 917 meals on our clients’ plates. That is powerful.”

“This food drive is the perfect intersection of our collective missions,” said Tom Kane, Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) President/CEO. “Credit unions exist to help people, not make a profit. Our goal is to serve all our members and residents well, including those of modest means. This compassionate act of community service will play an important role in the lives of those who are hungry.”